KAMPALA — After nearly four decades at the helm, Uganda’s long-serving leader, President Yoweri Museveni, is officially stepping back into the political ring—confirming what many Ugandans already suspected: he’s running again.
At 80 years old, Museveni is no stranger to the political spotlight. First taking power in 1986, his leadership has shaped generations of Ugandans. Now, with general elections set for January next year, the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has for the first time publicly confirmed his intention to run—through party electoral chief Tanga Odoi.
In a video shared Monday night by Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) on social media platform X, Odoi revealed that Museveni will collect official nomination forms on June 28, not just to seek the presidency, but also to retain his post as NRM’s party chairperson.
“The President will pick expression-of-interest forms for two positions—party chairperson and presidential flag bearer, if he’s cleared,” Odoi stated.
While the announcement may not come as a surprise, it sets the stage for a familiar, yet increasingly tense, political showdown. Museveni has run for office multiple times, aided in part by constitutional amendments that removed presidential age and term limits—changes backed by the NRM that allowed him to stay in power.
But he’s not without challenge. His fiercest political rival remains Robert Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine, the singer-turned-opposition figure who captured global attention during the 2021 elections. Wine is already gearing up for a rematch in 2026, maintaining that the previous elections were marred by intimidation and fraud.
“I won. But my victory was stolen,” Wine has often said, pointing to widespread allegations of ballot stuffing and military interference—claims the government has repeatedly denied.
Over the years, critics and rights groups have accused Museveni of using state institutions, patronage networks, and the military to tighten his hold on power. But Museveni insists his continued leadership is driven by the will of the people, not force.
As political parties finalize their candidate vetting, all eyes are on the coming months. For many Ugandans, it’s not just about another election—it’s about the direction their country will take after nearly 40 years under one leader.
And while Museveni’s name will be on the ballot once more, the real question remains: will Uganda choose continuity—or change?
